Contamination rate of cow's raw milk with Brucella abortus in Parsabad region by Milk Ring Test

Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease caused by gram-negative bacteria Brucella that are pathogenic for a wide variety of animals and human beings. Brucellosis, in particular, is easily transmitted via raw milk. Despite its control in many countries, it remains endemic in Iran. The transmission of brucella from infected animals to humans occurs either by occupational contact or the consumption of contaminated animal products, especially milk, cream and fresh cheese. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of cow raw milk contamination by Brucella abortus in Parsabad region. A total of 64 cow's raw milk samples were collected using cluster random sampling method from Parsabad milk collection centers from March to April 2009. Samples were monitored for Brucella abortus antibodies using Milk Ring Test. Based on the results of this study, the occurrence of Brucella abortus was estimated as 37/5% in Parsabad region. It was concluded that the presence of Brucella abortus in bulk raw milks of Parsabad region is very probable. Therefore, it is necessary to determine the prevalence of Brucella abortus in bulk raw milks using the microbiological assays.